These Baked Zucchini and Cheese Fritters are a light, savory snack or side dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with the creaminess of cottage cheese and mozzarella. Quick to prepare and baked to perfection, these fritters are a great way to enjoy a healthy, tasty treat that’s both filling and nutritious.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Active Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 small zucchini
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 30 g green onion, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
- 3 tablespoons oatmeal
- 2 tablespoons cottage cheese
- 2 eggs
- 100 g mozzarella cheese, grated (3.5 oz)
- Pepper, to taste
- Italian herbs, to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a bowl.
- Add ½ teaspoon of salt to the grated zucchini, mix well, and let it sit for 5 minutes to release excess moisture.
- After 5 minutes, squeeze out the excess water from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini with 30 g of chopped green onion, 3 tablespoons of oatmeal, and 2 tablespoons of cottage cheese.
- Add 2 eggs and mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Stir in 100 g of grated mozzarella cheese, a dash of pepper, and Italian herbs to taste.
- Bake the Fritters:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Spoon the mixture onto the baking sheet, forming small fritters or patties.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the fritters cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy them warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Zucchini Moisture: Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to ensure the fritters hold their shape and bake evenly.
- Cheese Variation: You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar or any cheese of your choice for a different flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, plus antioxidants.
- Oatmeal: Provides fiber and complex carbohydrates.
- Cheese and Cottage Cheese: Adds protein and calcium for a nutritious boost.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats if needed.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 6 fritters):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 1mg
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to retain their crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy and Quick: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal preparation.
- Nutritious and Tasty: Combines fresh vegetables and cheese for a balanced flavor.
- Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a side to a main meal.
Conclusion:
These Baked Zucchini and Cheese Fritters are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a quick meal or snack. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, they offer a flavorful blend of ingredients that are both satisfying and nutritious. Ideal for any occasion, these fritters are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables?
- Yes, grated carrots, spinach, or sweet potatoes can be great additions.
- Can I make these fritters vegan?
- Substitute eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs and use vegan cheese.
- What if I don’t have oatmeal?
- You can use breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute.
- Can I pan-fry these fritters instead of baking?
- Yes, pan-fry them in a little oil until golden and crispy on both sides.
- How do I make them spicier?
- Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
- Can I freeze these fritters?
- Yes, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven.
- Can I make them ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- What other herbs can I use?
- Fresh basil, thyme, or dill can be added for different flavors.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Cheddar, feta, or even Parmesan would work well.
- Are these suitable for kids?
- Yes, they are kid-friendly and a great way to incorporate veggies into their diet.